Shahzad Rasheed
Peshawar: The election process for the Successor Bishop of the Diocese of Peshawar has been completed, with Rev. Shahid Younis, a native of Mardan, elected as the Successor Bishop of the Diocese of Peshawar by a majority vote on July 30, 2026.
In accordance with the decision and authorization of the Diocesan Council meeting held on March 23, 2026, the Diocesan Executive Committee conducted the election for the Successor Bishop. Two candidates, Rev. Altaf Gohar and Rev. Shahid Younis, contested the election. Following the casting and counting of votes, Rev. Shahid Younis secured the majority and was declared elected.
Rev. Shahid Younis belongs to Mardan and, prior to his election, was serving as the Diocesan Secretary of the Diocese of Peshawar. He was also serving as Priest-in-Charge of the Kohat Area. In view of his ecclesiastical and administrative services, he has been elected to assume future leadership responsibilities within the Diocese.
According to the official announcement, if the office of the Bishop of Peshawar becomes vacant for any reason, the Successor Bishop will immediately assume administrative charge and all related responsibilities of the Bishop’s Office. Rev. Shahid Younis will, in due course, succeed the current Bishop of Peshawar, Bishop Humphrey Sarfaraz Peters, and assume leadership of the Diocese.
The Christian community and ecclesiastical circles associated with the Diocese of Peshawar have expressed their best wishes to Rev. Shahid Younis on his election. Prayers have been offered that God Almighty may guide, strengthen and grant him wisdom in his new responsibilities, enabling him to carry out his duties faithfully and effectively.
The announcement was jointly issued by Rev. Rafiq Masih, Vice Chair (Clergy), Diocese of Peshawar, and Rev. Khushbakht John, Secretary, Mission and Ministry Sector, Diocese of Peshawar.
